Sweet cherry 'Valery Chkalov'
One of the earliest cherry varieties developed in the Soviet Union, named in honour of a pilot
Sweet cherry 'Valery Chkalov' is one of the earliest Soviet-bred cultivars, named in honour of the celebrated aviator. This variety emerged during an era when plant breeders sought to develop fruit crops capable of thriving in temperate continental climates, and 'Valery Chkalov' became one such successful achievement, combining hardiness with reliable yields.
The tree impresses with its blooming display in early April — dense clusters of white flowers completely cover the branches, creating a spectacular spring spectacle. The fruits form large and dark red, weighing up to 10 grams, with a pleasant sweet flavour and juicy flesh. Ripening occurs relatively early, at the turn of June and July, making this variety an excellent choice for regions with shorter growing seasons. The tree naturally develops a broad, well-proportioned crown without requiring excessive pruning.
In the garden, 'Valery Chkalov' thrives in sunny locations with light loamy soil of neutral reaction. It pairs beautifully in compositions with other stone fruits — sour cherry, plum, or apple — creating contrasts of texture and flowering time. The plant is undemanding in care: it requires moderate watering during fruit ripening, whilst pruning is limited to the removal of diseased or dead branches.
If you dream of a garden where white blossoms unfold early in spring and sweet berries ripen by midsummer, this variety is precisely what you seek. 'Valery Chkalov' stands as proof that the legacy of Soviet plant breeding continues to thrive in our gardens, offering joy and harvests to generations of gardeners.
Sweet cherry 'Valery Chkalov' — planting & location
Large dark-red fruits up to 10 g, early ripening period
How to water Sweet cherry 'Valery Chkalov'
Water during fruit ripening
Fertilizing and pruning: Sweet cherry 'Valery Chkalov'
Remove only diseased and dead branches